Al-Obaidi

Al-Obaidi (also spelled as Al Obaidi or Al-Obeidi) (العبيدي) is a surname that denotes the belonging to the Al-Obaidi tribe. The Al-Obaidi family is a noble family who are directly descended from the Islamic prophet Muhammed, through his grandson Imam Hussain. They are usually given the right to use the honorific title Sayed before their first name. The literal translation of the Arabic word Sayed is Lord or Sir in the English language.

The Al-Obaidi family's common ancestor Obaid Ullah son of Khalil moved to Mosul where he became the Qadi of the city. Qadi can be literally translated to English as Judge. The position of Qadi was a privileged position in the Ottoman era; whereby every city had one Qadi to judge on the people's matters using Islamic jurisdiction.

The Al-Obaidi family is highly regarded in Arab social circles. They are respected because of their lineage and are addressed as Sayyid (for males) and Sayyida (for females). Traditionally they have enjoyed being a part of the and have been a staple part of high society. Furthermore, the Al-Obaidi tribe is known for it's wealth and they form one of the wealthiest families found in Iraq.

Historically, the family existed in different countries in middle east. Though the family is mainly concentrated in Iraq and around the Mosul area.

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